Jordan’s 40th Birthday

“I’m very happy to be alive and participate in the games”

According to Michael Jordan (Washington Wizards) on 18th February (U.S. date: 17th), in his 40th birthday comment.

Today, Michael Jordan’s 40th birthday anniversary game against the Toronto Raptors was cancelled due to heavy snow. However the fans still cheer at the “Living legend of NBA” Jordan’s name.

Currently, there are two other basketball players who are in 40s. They are John Stuckton (age 41, Utah Jazz) and Kevin Willis (age 40, San Antonio Spurs). In the history of NBA, Jordan is the 12th player in his 40s to be an active player.

The most senior aged active player record goes to Nat Hikki (Providence Steamrollers, 47-48 seasons).

A new attention was cast on Jordan by his 40th birthday due to his new appearances.

Jordan began his NBA career in 1984. He announced his first retirement in December 1993, after the shock from news of his father murder. But he returned and repeated his retirement. Jordan is quite an eccentric player with his brilliant play.

Lately, he returned back to the basketball court on 26th September 2001 for his love of the game. Since then, Jordan has excelled in transforming himself by receiving successful evaluations as a true leader.

After his second return, he pursued himself to provide confidence and opportunities to his fellow players. Due to his effort, the ever-loosing Washington team has reborn and became the 9th ranking team in the Eastern Conference and preparing itself for the playoffs.

“There is nothing like finding the right rhythm in all things to live happily. I’m happy that people evaluate my life as a success,” says Jordan.

“40s is not a young age to play basketball anymore,” he also says. That sounds like this is the last season before his retirement. Whether he retires or not, no one can deny that he is a ‘true emperor of basketball’.

Sang-Ho Kim hyangsan@donga.com